The wait is almost over. The first major DVLA personalised registration auction of 2026 starts on Tuesday 11th February.

From 11th to 17th February 2026, thousands of exclusive, never-before-seen number plates will go under the virtual hammer in a timed online auction.

Whether you are looking for your name, a business brand, or a rare dateless investment plate, this auction is one of the best opportunities of the year to buy directly from the source.

If you have never bid in a DVLA timed online auction before, this guide explains exactly how it works, what it costs, and what to do once you win.

Key Dates & Auction Information

• Auction Start: Tuesday 11th February 2026 (10:00 am)
• Auction End: Tuesday 17th February 2026 (staggered closing times)
• Format: Online-only timed auction

Each registration closes at a different time, so it is important to shortlist plates early and track them carefully.

How the DVLA Timed Auction Works

This is not a fast-paced live auction. It is a structured, timed online process designed to give bidders time to think.

Register First
You must create an account on the official DVLA auction website before you can place a bid.

Maximum Bid System
You enter the highest amount you are willing to pay. The system then bids automatically for you in £10 increments, only increasing your bid if someone else challenges it.

Example:
If your maximum bid is £500 and the next highest bidder is at £300, the system will hold your bid at £310. It only increases if another bidder pushes higher.

Sliding End Time
To prevent last-second bidding, if a bid is placed in the final 30 minutes, the countdown resets for another 30 minutes.

Watch Out for the Additional Costs

One of the most common mistakes first-time buyers make is forgetting about the extra fees. The amount you bid is not the final amount you pay.

When budgeting, always include:

• VAT (20%) on the winning bid
• Buyer’s premium (plus VAT) charged by the auction house
• DVLA assignment fee (£80) to transfer the registration

A low winning bid can quickly increase once all fees are added, so plan your budget carefully.

I Won the Auction – What Happens Next?

Once you win a registration:

1. You will receive a V750 Certificate of Entitlement by post or email
2. This certificate allows you to assign the registration to an eligible vehicle
3. The DVLA does not supply physical number plates

To display your new registration, you must order plates from a DVLA-registered supplier.

Build Your Plates Using the Number Plate Builder

Before ordering, it is recommended to confirm your vehicle details to avoid errors.

Check Your Registration Details First: Car Check Tool

Do Not Undervalue Your New Registration

You may have spent hundreds or even thousands securing the right plate. Finishing it with cheap or poorly fitted plates can undermine its appearance.

Popular premium options include:

• 4D laser-cut number plates for a modern, sharp finish
• 3D gel number plates for a high-gloss, refined look
• Adhesive fixing kits for a clean, screw-free installation

Ready for the Auction?

The DVLA February auction starts on 11th February. Plan your bids early, set a realistic budget, and track your shortlisted registrations closely.

Once you win, return here to create plates that match the value of your new registration.